A retractable needle syringe having a segmented retaining ledge at the distal end of the syringe barrel. The retaining ledge has uniformly spaced members configured to enable the retaining ring to break from the needle stem with a reduced plunger engagement force, which provides an improved tactile feeling of the syringe plunger and comfort of use. The segmented retaining ledge also makes it easier to install the needle stem and retaining ring in the barrel distal end, such that it snaps into place therepast with less axial force.
